The trial of former President Donald Trump in New York for hush money charges continues to draw attention, with House Speaker Mike Johnson making an appearance at the Manhattan courthouse. Despite this, Senate Republicans, including top leaders like Mitch McConnell, have no plans to attend the trial. Many Republicans have accused the judge and prosecutors of political bias, with Trump facing multiple charges related to allegedly falsifying business records to cover up an affair.
Johnson’s defense of Trump at the trial has sparked speculation about whether Senate GOP leadership will follow suit. However, McConnell and other potential successors have no intentions of attending the trial. They have expressed support for Trump’s presidential run but have been hesitant to fully endorse him.
Even conservative members of GOP leadership, like Sen. John Barrasso and Sen. Steve Daines, will not be making the trip to New York. Daines, who has a strong relationship with Trump, is focused on helping elect a Republican majority in the upcoming elections. Other Senate Republicans, including Joni Ernst and Shelley Moore Capito, have also indicated they will not be traveling to the trial.
Despite Trump’s unfounded claims of election fraud being a central theme in his presidential campaign, Senate GOP leaders have accepted his continued influence over the party. Thune and Cornyn, who initially criticized Trump for his role in the Capitol riot, have since endorsed him. Meanwhile, outspoken Trump supporters like Sen. Tommy Tuberville and Sen. J.D. Vance have visited the Manhattan courtroom.
Overall, Senate Republicans are facing questions about their support for Trump as he faces legal challenges. While some have chosen to stand by him, others are maintaining a cautious distance.
